Smart delivery package storage container

ABSTRACT

A delivery package container system that includes a control system for controlling a number of different aspects related to the container. In an example, the control system can maintain a desired climate inside a compartment in the container. The control system can also control access to the compartment. A user can also remotely gain access to the control system via a network.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a container and a system for storingone or more packages delivered to an address or a location and relatedmethods. More particularly, the present invention relates to a containerand a system for storing delivered packages with optional environmentalcontrols for the storage space inside the container and/or a securedspace for the delivered packages and related methods.

BACKGROUND

In recent years, on-line ordering of a product and having the productdelivered to a home address has become popular. This has increased thenumber of packages delivered to private addresses. The increase indelivered packages has caused a rise in the thefts of these packagesfrom residences. One cause in the rise of theft of these packages isthat the packages are often left in an unsecure, visible, and highlyaccessible area such as on a front porch of a residence when a residentis not home to receive the package. Theft problems are so prevalent withthe rise in home delivered packages that the phrase “porch pirates” hasbeen coined to explain the phenomena.

An additional problem that arises is that the contents of the packagemay be a perishable item and spoilage may occur if the package is leftin an area that is exposed to the environment. This is a particularconcern for providers of ready to cook meals that may send rawingredients that include meat and/or dairy products that may spoil ifleft in the environment at room temperature for extended periods oftime. This may also be a problem for meal providing services thatdeliver meals prepared by a restaurant to a residence. If the meal isleft at room temperature, the meal may cool making the meal lessenjoyable to the consumer and/or cause the food to spoil.

SUMMARY

An advance in the art is made by a smart storage system for one or moredelivery packages in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention. In accordance with some embodiments, the delivery packagestorage container of the present system comprises a housing havingplurality of walls or surfaces defining a compartment having an insideor interior space and at least one opening through one of the walls ofthe housing, such as through a side of the housing, for accessing theinterior space of the housing. A door can be affixed over the opening,such as hingedly affixed, pivotably affixed, slidably affixed, etc.,that is configured to move between an opened position allowing access tothe compartment and a closed position that prevents access to thecompartment through the opening. Inside the compartment, a climatecontrol system can be embedded compartment or placed to influence orchange the climate inside the compartment, compared to the outside orambient environment, to more preferred climate conditions.

In an example, ice may be placed inside the compartment to reduce theinterior temperature of the compartment below the ambient temperature.In another example, one or more heat packs may be placed inside thecompartment to increase the interior temperature of the compartmentabove the ambient temperature.

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, the climatecontrol system may include a storage compartment in the containmentunit, storage container or compartment for receiving a heating pack or acooling pack to regulate temperature in the housing. In accordance withmany embodiments, the climate control system may include a refrigerationunit for cooling the inside of the housing to a desired temperature. Inaccordance with a number of embodiments, the climate control system mayinclude a heating unit for heating the inside of the housing to adesired temperature.

In accordance with some embodiments, the climate control system includesa humidor for controlling a humidity level in the enclosure. Inaccordance with many embodiments, the climate control system may includevents defined through the housing and a fan inside the housing proximateat least one vent to produce an air flow through the interior of thehousing.

In accordance with some embodiments, a locking mechanism may beassociated with the door. If two or more doors, there can be two or morelocking mechanisms. For example, the locking mechanism can have a throwor a latch associated with the door and a socket for receiving the throwor latch associated with the housing. In other examples, the arrangementof the throw or latch and the receiving socket can reverse. The lockingsystem may alternate between an unlock state and to a lock state tosecure the door in the closed position and may unlock to allow the doorto move between the closed position to an open position to allow accessthrough the compartment opening, or the through opening. In exemplaryembodiments, the locking mechanism is a smart lock. For example, thesmart lock can be Wi-Fi enabled, Bluetooth enabled, have fingerprintscanning capability, and can include a touchscreen for entering codes tolock and unlock the locking mechanism.

In accordance with some embodiments, a delivery package container mayinclude a container control system. The container control system cancomprise a computer system having a processing system and a memoryaccessible by the processing system. In accordance with someembodiments, the container control system may receive climateinstructions, and adjust the climate control system to change theclimate in the enclosure based on the climate instructions. Inaccordance with many embodiments, the container control system mayreceive a lock command and control the locking mechanism based on thelock command.

In its simplest form, the delivery package storage container of thepresent invention comprises a housing comprising a plurality of walls,at least one through opening, at least one door for covering the atleast one through opening, and a locking mechanism for controllingaccess to the interior of the storage container via the at least oneopening and the at least one door. The through opening allows access tothe interior space, such as a compartment inside the housing, from aposition exterior of the housing.

In an example, a docking system is provided with the delivery packagestorage container. The docking system can comprise an anchor forsecurely fixing the delivery package storage container to a structure,such as to the patio, front porch, or foundation. The docking system cancomprise mounting flanges or fasteners for anchoring the deliverypackage storage container to the structure. In another example, thedocking system can comprise a home docking base that is adapted tocouple, receive, or engage a container docking base. For example, thehome docking base can be anchored to a stationary structure, such as apatio cover or a slab. The home docking base can comprise a first matingpart for coupling, receiving, or engaging a second mating part. Thesecond mating part can be provided with the delivery package storagecontainer. For example, the second mating part can be integrated to thebottom or back sidewall of the container housing. A lock can be providedto lock the first mating part and the second mating part together.

Any number of commercially available locks along with hinges, clamps,slots, chains, etc. may be used. In an example, the first or secondmating part can have a latch assembly or a throw mating to acorresponding slot or receiver. To unlock the docking system, the lockcan be accessible from a location external of the delivery packagestorage container. In some example, to unlock the docking system, thelock can only be accessible from inside of the delivery package storagecontainer. In still other examples, the lock to unlock the dockingsystem may be accessed via the container control system. Optionally, thelock can be accessible in multiple ways.

In accordance with some embodiments, the container control system mayinclude an input device that is embedded in an outer wall of the housingof the container to receive inputs from a user. In accordance with someof these embodiments, the container control system may also include adisplay embedded in the outer wall of the housing. In accordance with anumber of these embodiments, the input device may be a touch screen inthe display.

In accordance with some embodiments, the container control system mayinclude a camera. In accordance with number of these embodiments, thecontainer control system may capture an image with the camera inresponse to the lock mechanism being unlocked. In other examples, thedelivery package storage container is located near a location that isbeing monitored by a video security camera. In accordance with many ofthese embodiments, the container control system may include a microphoneand a network interface. The container control system may allowcommunication with a user device using the display, camera, andmicrophone in accordance with a number of these embodiments.

In accordance with some embodiments, the door on the delivery packagestorage container may be connected to the housing by a hinge. Inaccordance with some other embodiments, the door may slidably mounted ona pair of tracks mounted affixed to a surface of the housing opposingsides of the opening. The door may slidably move on the pair of tracksbetween the open and the closed positions. Optionally, the door may behinged and movable along a pair of tracks.

In accordance with some embodiments, a second compartment may be definedin the housing with a second opening defined through a side of thehousing to access the second compartment. A second door affixed to thehousing can be movable between a closed position in which the doorencloses the second opening and an opened position that allows access tothe second compartment. For example, the delivery package storagecontainer can have two compartments within the housing, each beingseparately accessible by a different opening with each opening beingcontrolled or regulated by a door. The two compartments can have thesame size and/or shape or different sizes and/or shapes. By having twoor more compartments, access to the different compartments can be givento different delivery personnel to further increase security.

In accordance with some embodiments, the container may include aplurality of wheels affixed to the housing. In accordance with manyembodiments, the container may include a coupling for a security cable,as an alternative or in addition to a docking station. The securitycable may be secured to a structure on one end and coupled to thehousing at a second end to secure the container substantially in place.

A further aspect of the invention can be a delivery package storagecontainer comprising: a housing having a plurality of sides having atleast one compartment inside the housing and at least one throughopening provided with the housing for accessing the at least onecompartment from a location exterior of the housing; a door movablylocated over the at least one through opening, the door is configured tomove between an open position allowing access to the at least onecompartment and a closed position that closes the opening therebypreventing access to the at least one compartment from the locationexterior of the housing; and a locking mechanism integrated with thedoor or the housing, the locking mechanism being openable with amechanical key, a combination code, an electronic signal, orcombinations thereof.

The delivery package storage container can further comprise a climatecontrol system in communication with the compartment for changingtemperatures inside the compartment.

The climate control system can comprise a refrigeration unit for coolingthe compartment.

The climate control system can comprise a heating unit for heating thecompartment.

The locking mechanism can be Wi-Fi enabled and configured to receive atleast one of a lock signal and an unlock signal.

The delivery package storage container can further comprise a containerdocking base associated with the housing for engaging a home dockingbase associated with a stationary structure.

The delivery package storage container can further comprise a containercontrol system comprising a processing system, a memory accessible bythe processing system, and instructions stored in the memory fordirecting the processing system to receive climate instructions.

The delivery package storage container can further comprise a containercontrol system comprising a processing system, a memory accessible bythe processing system, and instructions stored in the memory, andwherein the instructions in the memory comprise instructions to receivea lock command and control the locking mechanism based on the lockcommand.

The container control system can further include an input deviceattached to the housing and exposed at an exterior of the housing toreceive input from a user.

The container control system can further comprise a display attached tothe housing and exposed at the exterior of the housing.

The input device can include a touch screen in the display.

The container control system can further include a camera and whereinthe instructions in the memory can further include instructions tocapture an image with the camera in response to the lock mechanism beingunlocked

The container control system can further comprise a microphone and anetwork interface and wherein the instructions stored in the memoryfurther comprise instructions to allow communication with a user deviceusing the display, camera, and microphone.

The delivery package storage container of can further comprise a pair oftracks mounted on an inner surface of the housing where each one of thepair of tracks is mounted on an opposing side of the opening and thedoor is mounted to the pair of tracks to slidably move between the openand the closed positions.

The delivery package storage container can comprise more than oneopenings and more than one door, with each door mounted to the housingto close a corresponding opening.

The delivery package storage container can comprise a plurality ofwheels affixed to the housing. The wheels can be mounted on a rod or anaxis or be mounted directly to the housing and can swivel.

The delivery package storage container can include a coupling for asecurity cable wherein the security cable can be secured to a structureand to the coupling toe secure the housing to the structure.

A further aspect of the invention can include a method for securing adelivery package with a delivery package storage container. The methodcan comprise: providing a housing having a plurality of sides having atleast one compartment inside the housing and at least one throughopening provided with the housing for accessing the at least onecompartment from a location exterior of the housing; providing a doorover the at least one through opening, the door is configured to movebetween an open position allowing access to the at least one compartmentand a closed position that closes the opening thereby preventing accessto the at least one compartment from the location exterior of thehousing; providing a locking mechanism integrated with the door or thehousing, the locking mechanism being openable with a mechanical key, acombination code, an electronic signal, or combinations thereof; andactivating the locking mechanism after a delivery package is placed inthe at least one compartment.

The method can further comprise a container control system comprising aprocessing system, a memory accessible by the processing system, andinstructions stored in the memory, and wherein the instructions in thememory can comprise instructions to receive a lock command and controlthe locking mechanism based on the lock command.

The method can comprise placing an ice pack or a heating unit in the atleast one compartment.

Broadly speaking, a delivery package storage container of the inventioncan comprise a housing, a door, and a locking mechanism that isconfigured to actuated based on an electronic signal and usable to storeat least one package from a courier or a delivery person.

A further aspect of the invention can comprise a delivery packagestorage container comprising a base having body with a plurality ofwalls defining an interior and at least one lid closing an opening tothe body; a cooling source can be located inside the interior of thebody; and a controller to control access to the interior of the body.The controller is configured to receive input and electronically actuatea locking mechanism.

A still yet further aspect of the invention can comprise a deliverypackage storage container comprising a base having body with a pluralityof walls defining an interior and at least one lid closing an opening tothe body; a cooling source located inside the interior of the body; anda keypad for entering access code to gain access to the interior of thebody.

A still yet further aspect of the invention can comprise a deliverypackage storage container comprising a base having body with a pluralityof walls defining an interior and at least one lid closing an opening tothe body; a cooling source located inside the interior of the body; anda camera associated with the body, said camera is configured to take animage based on at least one of motion, sound, and a switch.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

These and other features and advantages of the present devices, systems,and methods will become appreciated as the same becomes betterunderstood with reference to the specification, claims and appendeddrawings wherein:

FIG. 1A is a top perspective view of an exemplary smart delivery packagestorage container in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1B is a side perspective view of the smart delivery package storagecontainer of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is a top perspective view of the smart delivery package storagecontainer of FIG. 1A with a top door opened.

FIG. 1D is a top perspective view of the smart delivery package storagecontainer of FIG. 1A with the top door opened and a package locatedinside the container

FIG. 1E shows the smart delivery package storage container along severaldifferent views or perspective in accordance with another embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 1F is perspective view of a smart delivery package storagecontainer in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2A is diagram of a network that includes devices that performvarious processes for providing and/or using a smart delivery packagecontainer system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2B is a diagram of systems that communicate over a network toprovide a smart delivery container system in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2C is a diagram of systems that communicate over a network toprovide a smart container delivery system in accordance with anembodiment of the invention and a process performed to use a smartcontainer delivery system in accordance with the shown embodiment.

FIG. 3A is a block diagram of a container control system in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3B is block diagram in a processing system in a device thatperforms processes in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4A is an operational flow diagram of a smart package deliverysystem in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 4B-4E are an operational flow diagram of a smart package deliverysystem in accordance with a particular embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram of a process performed by a containercontrol system to control a climate in an enclosure in the container inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a process performed by a delivery serviceprovider server system in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a process performed by a personal device ofa party delivering a package in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a process performed by a personal device ofa recipient of a package in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a process performed by a smart deliverypackage container control system in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIGS. 10A, 10B and 10C show a docking system usable with the deliverypackage storage container of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appendeddrawings is intended as a description of the presently preferredembodiments of delivery package storage containers provided inaccordance with aspects of the present devices, systems, and methods andis not intended to represent the only forms in which the presentdevices, systems, and methods may be constructed or utilized. Thedescription sets forth the features and the steps for constructing andusing the embodiments of the present devices, systems, and methods inconnection with the illustrated embodiments. It is to be understood,however, that the same or equivalent functions and structures may beaccomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to beencompassed within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Asdenoted elsewhere herein, like element numbers are intended to indicatelike or similar elements or features

A container for one or more delivery packages in accordance withembodiments of the invention has a housing that includes one or morecompartments or sections within the housing for storing deliveredpackages. The delivery package container, or container for short, mayoptionally include a climate control system in one or more compartmentsor sections of the housing to control the climate in the interior spaceof the housing of the container to help preserve the contents of adelivered package in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.The container may also include a container control system that controlsthe climate and/or access to the interior of the container, such as tocontrol access to the one or more compartments of the container. Inother examples, the container is without any heating and/or climatecontrol system.

The container may include one or more sensors that detect the presenceof a packet and/or a child or small animal that may have improperlyentered the container. For example, the container may comprise a scale,a heat sensor, or a motion detector to detect weight and/or movementinside the container. In some examples, safety release mechanisms areprovided to allow the container to open from inside the container. Thecontrol system may also include various devices that allow for remotecontrol of the climate and/or access by a recipient and/or a third partyprovider via a network communications. The control system may alsoinclude devices that allow a recipient to communicate with a personaccessing the container via the network communications. Delivery packagecontainers in accordance with various embodiments are discussed furtherwith reference to the drawings.

FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate a delivery package container in accordance withan embodiment of the invention. The delivery package container orcontainer 1000 has a top door 1010 that moves between opened and closedpositions to allow access to a compartment or section 1050 inside thehousing 1001 of the delivery package container 1000. In an example, acontainer control system 1005 is affixed to the top or exterior side ofthe door 1010. In other examples, the container control system 1005 maybe located elsewhere on the container, such as integrated into one ofthe sides of the container. The container control system 1005 mayinclude a keypad 1025, a camera 1030, and an indicator light 1035, amongothers. The keypad 1025 can be an input device that allows for the entryof alphanumeric codes, commands, and/or other communications. The camera1030 is an image capture device that can capture still and/or videoimages of the surroundings of container 1000 when activated and/or animage of the person that is accessing or attempting to access thecontainer.

The indicator light 1035 can be activated to indicate contents withinthe compartment 1050 or as an alarm system when an unauthorized entryinto the container 1000 is attempted. In an alternative embodiment, thefront panel 1015 may be movable between an opened position and a closedposition to aid in the removal in large and/or heavy packages. The frontpanel 1015 may be movable only after the top panel or primary door 1010is activated, rotated, or opened. For example, after the top panel orprimary door 1010 has been raised, mechanisms for releasing the frontpanel 1015 to enable movement of the front panel is available to theuser. Thus, the container 1000 may be understood as being accessible viamore than one door. As shown, the container 1000 can have a plurality ofsides. If the door is considered a side, the container 1000 can have atleast six sides. In other examples, the container 1000 can have fewer ormore than side sides. As shown in FIG. 1B, the container 1000 mayinclude a retractable handle 1060 and wheels 1070 to allow a person tomove the container 1000 to facilitate the removal of packages from thecontainer. In accordance with some other embodiments, the container 1000may include a scissor lift mechanism, pneumatic jack, or other liftingsystem inside the container to help in lifting heavy packages out of thecontainer. In an example, the container 1000 is configured to bestationarity fixed and not movable. Thus, the wheels 1070 andretractable handle 1060 can be omitted, in alternative embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 1C, ice 1055, such as ice packs, ice cubes, ice blocks,or some other type of environmental control system may be placed insidethe container to control the internal climate of the container 1000. Inaccordance with some embodiments, an owner/user places the icepacks inthe compartment 1050 at a beginning of the day prior to the deliveriesbeing made. The door can be closed and the package delivery container1000 is ready to receive its first delivery package, such as later inthe day by an Amazon or UPS delivery person. A package may subsequentlybe placed into the container as shown in FIG. 1D.

In an example, before the first package delivery to the container, thedoor can be closed over the opening but not locked. As shown in FIG. 1C,the door 1010 is moved to open the at least one opening of the housing1001 to expose the at least one compartment 1050 located inside theinterior of the housing. Shown schematically and associated with thedoor 1010 is a locking mechanism 1075, which can be attached to theunderside or interior surface of the door 1010. The locking mechanism1075 is shown with a throw or a latch 1077, which is movable by anactuator or a motor, such as a low voltage DC gear motor, between anextended position to engage a receiving socket 1079 associated with thehousing 1001. In other examples, the arrangement of the lockingmechanism 1075 and the receiving socket 1079 can reverse.

As further discussed below, the locking mechanism 1075 can be actuatedto lock and unlock manually using a standard metal key with ridges,cuts, or teeth for moving one or more pins located in a core or plug. Inother examples, the locking mechanism 1075 may be equipped a keypad thatelectronically actuates the actuator or the motor. In still otherexamples, the locking mechanism may be Wi-Fi enabled, Bluetooth enabled,fingerprint enabled and/or video and voice enabled. Exemplary mechanismsthat can be modified for use with the delivery package storage containerof the present invention includes the smart door lock from Ultraloq,Schlage, GJT, or Akaso.

After delivery, the door may then be placed in the closed position andthe control system 1005 senses the package and locks the door to preventthe door from opening. The process for using the smart deliverycontainer to receive one or more packages in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention is discussed further below. Further, unlessthe context indicates otherwise, a package is to be construed broadly tomean any item to be received inside the container, which can include apaper document, a consumer good, and a food item.

Although delivery package container in accordance with an embodiment ofthe invention is described above, other delivery package containers thatadd, combine, modify, and/or remove components of the containers basedupon particular system requirements and/or design choices are possible.Various views of one such delivery package container in accordance withan embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 1E where the containerincludes most of the components described above with respect to FIGS.1A-1D arranged in a different manner. As shown in the presentembodiment, the container control system is integrated with the frontside or front panel of the housing.

FIG. 1F illustrates a delivery package container 100 in accordance withanother embodiment of the invention. As shown, the delivery packagecontainer 100 has a housing 101. The housing 101 has a top, bottom,front, back, first, and second sides. A first door 105, a second door110, and a control system panel 115 are provided with the housing 101.Additional doors are contemplated and can be located elsewhere on thehousing.

In an example, the housing 101 can be molded from a plastic material.Preferably, the housing is insulated, such as by utilizing an innershell and an outer shell and trapping insulated foam therebetween. Thehousing 101 can be formed as a single construction with one or moreopenings for use with one or more doors to close the one or moreopenings. In other examples, the housing can be made from two or morehousing sections that are joined together. The multiple housing sectionsconstruction can have one or more openings for use with one or moredoors to close the one or more openings. The multiple sections can bejoined by bonding, welding, and/or with fasteners. The housingconstruction should be sufficiently rigid to withstand expected abusefrom pulling, kicking, and jumping on by porch pirates.

In some examples, the housing can be reinforced with a material that isstronger than plastic. For example, sections of the housing can bereinforced with a metal material, an engineered plastic material such asPEEK, or a composite material. In an example, a reinforcing material isplaced at the bottom of the housing to reinforce the second mating partof the docking system. Additionally or optionally, reinforcing materialor reinforcing structure can be placed at the corners of the housing toreinforce the housing at locations where two sides mate or join. Instill other examples, the one or more doors are reinforced with areinforcing material or reinforcing structure.

In an example, the housing is sized and shaped to receive one or morepackages. In an example, the housing can be about 30 inches to 48 incheswide, 20 inches to 30 inches deep, and 24 inches to 36 inches high ortall. The opening to the housing can be about 18 inches to 40 inches by18 inches to 40 inches. However, the ranges described herein areexemplary only and not to be construed as limiting.

First door 105 covers an opening 105 a into a first compartment inhousing 101. First door 105 is movable between a closed position (Shown)and an opened position (Not Shown). In the closed position, first door105 closes the opening 105 a preventing access to a first compartment inthe housing 101. In the opened position, first door 105 allows access tothe first compartment in housing 101 through the opening 105 a. Inaccordance with some embodiments, first door 105 is affixed to housing101 with one or more hinges on one side of the opening. In accordancewith some particular embodiments, the hinges are on the bottom side ofthe door to allow the door to “flip” outwards for easy loading of apackage into the first compartment.

A latching system (Not Shown) may be used to couple first door 105 tohousing 101 in response to first door 105 being in the closed position.In accordance with many embodiments, a locking mechanism (Not Shown) maybe included in the latching system to lock door 105 in place in theclosed position. Depending on particular embodiments, the lockingmechanism may be a mechanical locking mechanism and/or anelectromagnetic locking system. In accordance with numerous embodiments,a control system controls the operation of the locking mechanism tocontrol access to the first compartment.

In accordance with some embodiments, first door 105 is affixed to atrack system. The track system may have a pair of tracks with each trackbeing affixed to a surface on one of the opposing sides of the opening.First door 105 then slides along the tracks between the open and closedpositions. In some of these embodiments, a latch with a lockingmechanism is used to secure door 105 in the closed position. Inaccordance with a few of these embodiments, a motor system in thecontainer 100 is used to drive the first door 105 along the tracksbetween the open and closed positions.

The first compartment in housing 101 can include a climate controlsystem (Not Shown) that controls the environment in the compartment,such as ice or a heat source. In some embodiments, the climate controlsystem may simply be a cold pack or a heat pack placed in a compartmentof the housing 101. In accordance with some embodiments, the climatecontrol system may be a shelf or a section inside the first compartmentthat can receive heat and/or cold producing devices to adjust thetemperature in the first compartment.

In accordance some embodiments, the climate control system may includevents defined through the housing and a fan to induce an airflow throughthe first compartment and/or the second compartment. In accordance witha number of embodiments, the climate control system includes a humidorto control the humidity in the first compartment. In accordance withsome embodiments, the climate control system includes a refrigerationsystem embedded in or associated with the first compartment. Forexample, the refrigeration system can be located external to the housingand then provided with ducts for passing refrigerated air into theinterior of the housing.

In accordance with some other embodiments, the climate control systemincludes a heating system embedded in or associated with the firstcompartment. In accordance with many other embodiments, the climatecontrol system includes a refrigeration system and a heating systemembedded in the first compartment to regulate the temperature of thefirst compartment. Alternatively, the refrigeration system and theheating system can be located external to the housing and then providedwith ducts for passing chilled or heated air into the interior of thehousing.

In accordance with some further embodiments, the first compartment maybe insulated to help maintain the temperature in the compartment fromexcessive heat loss or heat transfer. In accordance with many furtherembodiments, the surface of the first compartment may be waterproofand/or sealed to prevent moisture from escaping the compartment. Inaccordance with a number of embodiments, the first compartment mayinclude one or more sensors for detecting the presence of a child and/orpackage. The sensor may be used to unlock and/or disable a lockingmechanism when a child is detected in the first compartment. Examples ofthese sensors include weight, proximity, capacitance, and resistancesensors in accordance with various embodiments. The one or more sensorscan therefore act as a safety device for guarding against undesiredconditions.

A second door 110 is shown covering an opening 110 a through a side ofhousing 101 into a second compartment in the housing 101. Second door110 is movable between a closed position (Shown) and an opened position(Not Shown). In the closed position, second door 110 closes the opening110 a preventing access to a second compartment in the housing 101. Inthe opened position, second door 110 allows access to the secondcompartment in housing 101 through the opening. In accordance with someembodiments, second door 110 is affixed to housing 101 with one or morehinges on one side of the opening. In accordance with some particularembodiments, the hinges are on the bottom side of the door to allow thedoor to “flip” outwards for easy loading of a package into the secondcompartment.

A latching system (Not Shown) may be used to couple second door 110 tohousing 101 in response to second door 110 being in the closed position.In accordance with many embodiments, a locking mechanism (Not Shown) maybe included in the latching system to lock second door 110 in place inthe closed position. Depending on particular embodiments, the lockingmechanism may be a mechanical locking mechanism and/or electromagneticlocking system. In accordance with numerous embodiments, a controlsystem controls the operation of the locking mechanism to control accessto the second compartment.

In accordance with some embodiments, second door 110 is affixed to atrack system. The track system may have a pair of tracks with each trackbeing affixed to a surface on one of the opposing sides of the opening.Second door 110 then slides along the tracks between the open and closedpositions. In some of these embodiments, a latch with a lockingmechanism is used to secure second door 110 in the closed position. Inaccordance with a few of these embodiments, a motor system in thecontainer 100 is used to drive the second door 110 along the tracksbetween the open and closed positions.

The second compartment in housing 101 can include a climate controlsystem (Not Shown) that controls the environment in the secondcompartment. In accordance with some embodiments, the climate controlsystem may be a shelf or a section inside the second compartment thatcan receive heat and/or cold producing devices to adjust the temperaturein the second compartment. In accordance many embodiments, the climatecontrol system may include vents through the housing and a fan to inducean airflow through the second compartment. In accordance with a numberof embodiments, the climate control system can include a humidor tocontrol the humidity in the second compartment.

In accordance with some embodiments, the climate control system includesa refrigeration system embedded in the second compartment. In accordancewith some other embodiments, the climate control system includes aheating system embedded in the second compartment. In accordance withmany other embodiments, the climate control system includes arefrigeration system and a heating system embedded in or associated withthe second compartment to regulate the temperature of the secondcompartment. In accordance with some further embodiments, the secondcompartment may be insulated to maintain the temperature in thecompartment.

In accordance with many further embodiments, the surface of the secondcompartment may be waterproof and/or sealed to prevent moisture fromescaping the compartment. In accordance with a number of embodiments,the second compartment may include one or more sensors for detecting thepresence of a child. This sensor may be used to unlock and/or disable alocking mechanism when a child is detected in the second compartment.The first and the second compartments may be separated from one anotherby one or more shelfs, internal baffles, or plates.

Container 100 may include a container control system 104. The containercontrol system 104 can be a processing system that executes variousfirmware and/or software processes to control the climates in and/oraccess into the compartments of container 100. In the shown embodiment,the control system includes a control system panel 115 integrated to orwith the front side of the housing 101. Control panel 115 can include acamera 125, a display 130, and a microphone/speaker 127. In accordancewith some embodiments, the display 130 may include a touch screen thatallows a user to input alphanumeric commands, data, and queries to thecontrol system. In accordance with a number of embodiments, thetouchscreen may be used to capture biometric data including, but notlimited to a fingerprint for use in identifying a user accessing thecontainer.

Camera 125 may be used to capture images of any person accessing orattempting to access the interior of the housing 101. Microphone/speaker127 may be used to receive audio input and/or playback audio. Inaccordance with a number of embodiments, the camera 125 and/ormicrophone/speaker 127 may be used to provide communications between aperson accessing the compartment of the delivery package container 100and a remote user, such as the owner of the container 100. In accordancewith some other embodiments, the microphone/speaker 127 may be used tobroadcast an alarm when access is denied to a user. Optionally, thesecurity system of the package delivery system 100 can be integratedwith or connected to the home securing monitoring system so that whenthe package delivery system 100 is tripped, the housing alarm and isalso tripped and the monitoring service can either contact the ownerand/or law enforcement. The control system and processes performed bythe control system to control the climate and access to the interior ofthe delivery package container 100 are discussed in further detail belowwith reference to FIGS. 3-8.

In addition, container 101 may include an opening through the top sideinto the interior of the housing 101. A top door 113 on the top side ofthe housing 101 may control access to the interior through the topopening 113 a. Top door 113 may be used to allow access from the topside which may facilitate delivery of packages by Unmanned AerialVehicles (UAVs). In accordance with some embodiments, the top door 113is affixed to a track system. The track system may have a pair of trackswith each track affixed to a surface of the top side of housing 101 onone of the opposing sides of the opening. Top door 113 then slides alongthe tracks between the opened and closed positions. In some of theseembodiments, a latch with a locking mechanism is used to secure top door113 in the closed position. In accordance with a few of theseembodiments, a motor system in the container 100 is used to drive thetop door 113 along the tracks between the opened and closed positions.Optionally the top door 113 can be pivotably connected and be equippedwith an actuation cylinder for automatically opening and closing the topdoor.

Housing 101 can include wheels 135 that are affixed to the bottom ofhousing 101 to allow the container 100 to be moved. In an example, thehousing can include at least four wheels. In an example, at least two ofthe wheels can swivel to facilitate turning and tight cornering. Acoupling or anchoring loop 145 on a side of housing 101 may allow acable 140 or some other restraining system to be coupled to the housing101 to secure the housing 101 in place. The cable may have one endaffixed or coupled to the coupling 145 and a second end secured to abase anchor 150. The cable may instead loop around both the coupling andthe base anchor 150. The base anchor 150 may be the ground, a fastenersecure to the ground, a structure, or any other object of sufficientmass to prevent the housing 101, via the cable 140, from being moved. Inaccordance with some other embodiments, the housing may be removablefrom a docking station that includes a secure base and couples to thehousing when the housing is in the docking station to secure the housingin place. In accordance with some of these embodiments, the dockingstation may be uncoupled by a key, or code entered into the controlsystem and/or docking station, or some other means. Further aspects of adocking system are discussed with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B.

Although delivery package containers in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention have been described, other delivery packagecontainers that add, combine, modify, and/or remove components of thedelivery package containers based upon particular system requirementsand/or design choices are possible. Thus, it is understood that aspectsof the invention are not limited to the exact embodiments described butto the teachings that can be combined, especially when the modifieddelivery package containers add or contribute to the functions of theinvention.

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a control systemis provided for controlling different functions of the delivery packagecontainer. In an example, the control system is configured forcontrolling a climate control system for controlling the temperatures inone or more compartments of the container and/or for controlling accessto the compartments. In accordance with embodiments of the invention,the control system is a processing system and uses a network connectionto receive commands from a recipient devices and/or third party providersystems for changing the environment and/or controlling access. FIG. 2Aillustrates a diagram of an exemplary network connecting the controlsystem and various devices that may communicate with the control systemin accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

In FIG. 2A, a container control system 210, a delivery service serversystem 215, and user devices 220, 225 connect to a network 205 tocommunicate with one another. In accordance with various embodiments,the network 205 may be, but is not limited to, the Internet, a LocalArea Network (LAN), a Wide Area Network, (WAN), or any other type ofnetwork that allows processing systems to communicate with one another.

The container control system 210 can be a processing system thatcontrols various systems in a delivery package container and may beconnected to the network 205 either in a wireless 222 or wired manner.The delivery service server system 215 can be a group of one or morecomputer systems that are connected by an internal network and that aremaintained by a third party to provide services over the Internet orother networks including processes that provide for tracking andcontrolling the delivery packages, such as Federal Express, UnitedParcel Service, DHL, and the U.S. Postal Service.

In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, the serversystem 215 may include any number of computer systems and more than onedeliver service server system providing delivery services for more thanone party may be connected to the network 205. User device 220 is apersonal user device that connects to network 205 via a wirelessconnection. For purposes of this discussion, a wireless connection is aconnection that uses Radio Frequency, Infrared (IR), or any otherwireless media to transmit data between devices, such as a cellularnetwork.

Examples of user devices 220, include, but are not limited to, smartphones, personal digital assistants, tablets, laptop computers,televisions, vehicular infotainment systems and/or any other personaldevices that may be held and/or worn by user. User device 225 is acomputer system that is connected by a wired connection to the network205. For purposes of this discussion, a wired connection is anyconnection to another device by a wire and/or cable to allowcommunication over a network. Examples of user devices that may beconnected using a wired connection include, but are not limited to,desktop computers, laptop computers, smart appliances, and/or any otherdevice that is typically placed in a stationary position.

Although networks connecting various devices in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention are described above with reference to FIG.2A, other network configurations and/or other types of devices that areconnected by a network may be used to perform processes related to adelivery package container in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention.

The various systems that communicate to provide a smart package deliverysystem in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown inFIG. 2B. In the network shown in FIG. 2B, a container control system 285connects to a home network 280 via a Wi-Fi connection. However, in someembodiments, the container system 285 may connect to a router or someother device on the premises via a wired connection. The home network280 connects to the Internet 250 via a cable, telephonic, or some otherhigh speed connection. In this manner, the container control system 285may communicate over the Internet via a connection to home network 280.A handheld device 290 of a delivery person may either connect directlyto container control system 285 or use an IP connection over Internet250. The direct connection may be Bluetooth or other wireless connectionor may be a direct physical connection using a communication bus, suchas a USB bus. An administrator system 270 may be connected to Internet250 and may communicate with the container control system 285 and/orback-end systems 260 via the Internet 250. Backend system 260 includesservers, databases, and other systems that provide the processes and/ordata to perform various applications used in the system.

Although a network of systems for providing a smart package deliverysystem in accordance with some embodiments of the invention is shown inFIG. 2A, networks with other configurations that add, remove and alterthe described systems are possible in accordance with various otherembodiments of the invention.

The various systems that communicate to provide a smart package deliverysystem in accordance with a particular embodiment of the invention and aprocess for using a smart package delivery system in accordance with theshown embodiment are shown in FIG. 2C. In FIG. 2C, a container controlsystem 2005 and a personal computer 2010 of the owner connect to a Wi-Firouter 2014 via wireless connections. The Wi-Fi router 2014 connects toa cable modem 2012. The cable modem 2012 connects to the Internet 2090via a cable, telephonic, or some other high speed connection. In thismanner, container control system 2005 may communicate over the Internet2090 via a connection to the home network. A device 2040 of a deliveryperson may either connect directly to the container control system 2005or use an IP connection over Internet 2090. The direct connection may beBluetooth or other wireless connection or may be a direct physicalconnection using a communication bus such as a USB bus.

Similarly, the mobile device of the owner can connect to the Internet2090 via a telephonic network or another wireless connection tocommunicate with the container control system 2005. Backend system 2025include servers, databases, and other systems that provide the processesand/or data to perform various applications used in the smart packagedelivery system via a connection to Internet 2090.

Third party server systems 2035 are server systems operated either bydelivery companies or vendors to provide delivery information to backend systems 2025 and/or container control system 2005 via the Internet2090. An owner personal computer 2030, such as the owner's work PC or asecond home PC, connects to the Internet 2090 to communicate with thebackend systems 2025 and/or the container control system 2005 to receiveand provide package delivery information to and from the owner.

A process for using a smart delivery package system with the describednetwork is also shown in FIG. 2C. The process begins by powering up asmart box delivery container. Each day, a third party provider and/orthe backend system can send a reminder to the owner via one of the ownerdevices to put an ice pack or other temperature control device into thecontainer 2050. Optionally, if the owner places a temperature controldevice into the container 2050, then a sensor can notify and/or confirmthat the unit is set for delivery without further reminders.

The third party provider system(s) and/or the back end system(s) alsosend the last N-digits of the tracking number of each package beingdelivered to the container control system and/or the device of adelivery person 2055. In an example, N-digits can represent a wholenumber greater than 3 digits, which can be alpha-numeric. For example, ashipping courier can have a 25-digit alpha-numeric tracking number andthe third party provider system can forward the last 5 digits. Thecontainer control system stores the N last digits of each trackingnumber in memory 2060. When the container control system senses a firstdelivery person, a display of “open” is presented on the display of thecontainer to indicate to the delivery person that the container is openand the person may place the package in the container 2065.

A more complete description of the delivery process is provided withrespect to FIGS. 4A-4E. For a second delivery, the display can ask foran input of the last N digits of a tracking number and/or some otheridentifying information. If the input digits match one of the storedlast N digits, the container control system can unlock the container toallow for safe storage inside the housing. If the delivery person is notsuccessful in entering a valid code in a certain amount of time and/ornumber of tries, the container control system may establish a videoconversation with the owner via one of the owner devices (home PC, workPC, or mobile device) 2070 and the owner may remotely open the lock bypressing an input button on the owner device 2075. If the owner does notopen the container and/or the owner cannot be contacted by the deliveryperson or the third party provider system, the container system maypresent a display that directs the delivery person to place the packagebehind the container 2080 or elsewhere in the vicinity.

Although a particular network of system for providing a smart packagedelivery system and a process for using the container in accordance withan embodiment of the invention are shown in FIG. 2C, networks with otherconfigurations that add, remove and alter the described systems arepossible in accordance with various other embodiments of the inventionand other processes that add, combine, and/or remove steps of theprocess in accordance with various other embodiments are possible.

A block diagram of components of a control system for the container inaccordance with an embodiments of the invention is shown in FIG. 3A. Thecontrol system includes a system controller 350 that includes aprocessing system that executes instructions to provide variousprocesses for the container system. A Wi-Fi interface 351 allows thecontrol system to connect to a home Wi-Fi network to communicate withother devices. Actuators 352 can be a group of actuators and can includeone or more actuators for locking and unlocking latches for the one ormore doors of the package delivery container. Environmental controlsensors 354 can include one or more sensors that detect temperature andother environmental properties inside and/or outside of the container.

Environmental control module 355 can be a module that controls theenvironment inside the container based on information received fromenvironmental sensors 354.

Battery/power supply 356 can be the power source for the container.Optionally, the system controller can operate on household electricity,e.g., 120 volts AC.

Bluetooth interface 360 provides direct wireless communication withother devices. Camera 361 is an image capture device that can capturestill and/or video images for various processes.

Motion detector 362 includes sensors that detect motion inside and/or inthe proximity of the container. LCD display 363 can be a display on thecontainer used for communication with a user and/or delivery person.

Key pad 364 is an input device that allows a user or delivery person toenter alphanumeric codes and message(s) to the container system.

Alarms 365 can be audio and/or visual devices that are used to providevarious warnings and/or cues for the various processes. LED warninglight circuitry 370 can be circuitry that activates an LED or otherlighting system as a warning. Docking station module 371, as introducedabove, can provide control for a docking station that couples to thecontainer when the container engages the docking station to hold thecontainer in place. Some embodiments may also include a package liftingsystem and circuitry to control the system 372.

The control system may also include speaker/microphone circuitry 373 toallow auditory interaction with a user/delivery person. Some embodimentsmay also include a battery charging system 374. A parcel detectionsystem module 375 can provide process for detecting the presence of apacket. The control system may also include a printer system and/orcontrol circuitry for the system 376 to provide paper receipts.

Although the above provides the components of a container control systemin accordance with an embodiment of the invention, other control systemsthat add, remove or combine various components are possible inaccordance with various other embodiments.

The system controller of the container includes a processing system inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 3B illustrates ablock diagram of components of a processing system in a containercontrol system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.Control system 300 includes a processing system 305. Processing system305 can include circuitry that performs instructions stored in memory toperform a process. In accordance with various embodiments of theinvention, processing system 305 may be a processor, microprocessor,controller, logic unit, or any combination of the preceding componentsin accordance with various embodiments of the invention. Processingsystem 305 can be connected to a volatile memory 310 and a non-volatilememory 315.

Volatile memory 310 can store instructions and/or data for a processperformed by processing system 305 to perform a process. In accordancewith various embodiments of the invention, volatile memory 310 may be aconventional memory and/or any other type of circuitry that stores dataand/or instructions to perform a process. Non-volatile memory 315 can bea memory that stores instructions for operational processes of containercontrol system 300 and/or instructions for other processes including,but not limited to, processes for controlling a climate in a compartmentin the container and/or processes for controlling access to acompartment in the container. In accordance with various embodiments,non-volatile memory 315 may be a conventional memory or any othercircuitry that stores instructions for directing processing system 305to perform a process.

Although container control systems in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention are described with reference to FIG. 3,other container control systems that add, remove, modify, and/or combinecomponents based on the system requirements of the particular controlsystems and voltage regulators are possible in accordance with variousother embodiments of the invention.

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a smart deliverypackage system provides a system for receiving packages from one or moredeliveries, from the same or different delivery providers, while a useris away from home or preoccupied and cannot attend to the one or moredeliveries. A process for receiving packages in accordance with anembodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 4A. Process 400 can beginwith the door to the container being unlocked 405. Optionally, theprocess can begin with the one or more doors to the container beinglocked and the delivery personnel has to gain access by one or moredifferent means. A first delivery is then made by placing a package inthe container. The control system uses sensors in the container todetect the presence of the package at 410 and locks the container 415 inresponse to detecting the package.

In a number of embodiments, the system can issue a receipt for thedelivery via text, e-mail, or in some other manner in response todetection of the package.

Separately or at a later time, the control system of the containerdetects the presence of a second delivery person 420 to deliver a secondpackage to the container. The presence may be detected from imagescaptured by the camera, by proximity sensors, or by receiving a codeinput using the keypad.

The control system then transmits a message to the owner at 425 tonotify the owner that a second delivery is being attempted. In manyembodiments, the system may activate an indicator light to indicate tothe delivery person that the container is locked. In response to themessage at 425, the owner can transmit a code or signal to the controlsystem to open the container. The control system receives the code orsignal from the user at 430 and the code unlocks the container at 435.The second delivery person can the place the second package in thecontainer and closes the container. The control system detects thesecond package in the container at 440 and locks the container at 445.In an example, the unlock notification at 430 unlocks a second door tothe package delivery container to open a second opening of the packagedelivery container. Optionally, the unlock notification at 430 unlocksthe same first door to the package delivery container to open the firstopening of the package delivery container that has the first deliveredpackage contained therein.

Separately or at a later time, the control system receives an open codefor a third delivery attempt, which can be from the same courier companyor a different courier company. The code may be a company specific codeto input via the keypad, a QR code displayed on a smart device of thedelivery person, a magnetic key or a conventional key. In response toreceiving the code, the control system unlocks the container. The thirdor subsequent delivery person then opens the container and places thepackage in the container. The control system senses the package in thecontainer at 460 and locks the container at 465. The processes forunlocking and locking the container may be repeated for subsequentdeliveries as needed. Alternatively, the process can stop at just onedelivery, at two deliveries, or at three deliveries, etc.

Further, systems in accordance with some embodiments may transmits anelectronic receipt via SMS or e-mail to a user device, delivery persondevice, delivery company device after the delivery of a package isconfirmed. In still other embodiments, the container may include aprinter that the control system uses to print a paper receipt for thedelivery person in response to a delivery of a package being confirmed.

Although a process for receiving packets in accordance with someembodiments of the invention are described above, other processes thatadd, combine, change the order, and/or remove steps are possible inaccordance with various other embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 4B-4E show a flow diagram of a process for receiving packagesusing a smart package delivery system in accordance with a particularembodiment of the invention. Process 4000 begins with the owner placingice packs or some other thermal regulating device in the container andopening an application using an owner device to input the trackingnumbers or some other identifications of the deliveries expected duringthe day at 4002. The container then unlocks one or more doors in thecontainer to receive the first delivery at 4004.

The container control system may activate a monitoring system including,but not limited to, a people sensor, a camera, and/or an internalmonitor at 4006. The container control system performs a system checkthat may include, but is not limited to, sending test messages tovarious devices, measuring an internal temperature using the internalsensor, and optionally testing connections to user devices sellersystems, and/or delivery person devices at 4008. Once the system isdetermined to be in a ready state, the container control systemactivates a light to indicate that the container is being monitored andconnected at 4010. The light can have a number of different colors,including blue or green. Optionally, the test for readiness may includereceiving replies from the owner, supplier, and/or delivery persondevices. The container control system then begins to continuouslymonitor for the presence of a delivery person and/or a live objectinside the container at 4012.

If a live object is detected in the container at 4014, the containercontrol system unlocks the container and activates an alarm, such as aflashing light, at 4026. Optionally, the owner can be notified of theliver object. If no live object is detected, the container controlsystem keeps monitoring for the presence of a person approaching thecontainer at 4016. When a person is detected, the container controlsystem sends a notification to the owner via an e-mail, text, live videofeed, SMS or some other manner at 4018. No action is required from theowner in response to the notification.

In further response to the detection of a person approaching thecontainer, the container control system may turn on a red light or otheralarm feature at 4020. Optionally, a video of the owner or some otherperson may be played on the display of the container to chase pests,children, and/or trespassers away. The process then detects that apackage is delivered. In accordance with various embodiments, thepackage may be detected by sensors that detect pressure and/or weight, aphoto detector and/or any other sensor that may be incorporated into thecontainer system at 4022. The container control system senses that thedoor to the container has been closed and locks the container at 4024.In response to the detected delivery of a package, the container controlsystem may print a paper receipt at 4028 and/or send confirmation of thedelivery to the owner, seller, and/or third party delivery service viae-mail, SMS, or some other message delivery system at 4030. Theconfirmation may provide information including, but not limited to,delivery time, the temperature in the container, and/or a deliveryperson identification. The container control system may then enter aready monitor mode 4032. In some embodiments, the container controlsystem may activate a blue light or other indicator to show that thecontainer is being monitored and is connected to the system.

The container control system enters a ready monitor mode and activates ablue light or some other indicator that shows the container is connectedand being monitored at 4032. The container control system can usesensors such as, but not limited to, motion, heat, IR, proximity and thelike to monitor for a person approaching the container at 4034. Inresponse to the detection of a person, a pet, or other being, thecontainer control system may turn on a red light or other alarm featureat 4036. Optionally, a video of the owner or some other person may beplayed on the display of the container to chase pests, children, and/ortrespassers away. For example, if a porch pirate, a voice messagestating that “you're being watched” may be played to scare away theperson. Further, in response to the detection of something approaching,the system may activate an App on an owner device that includes videoand audio features as well as a “button” to send a signal to open thecontainer at 4038.

If the owner is not available at 4040, the container control system mayrequest that the delivery person enter an access code and waits for thedelivery person to enter the code at 4042. In some embodiments, the codemay be a portion of a tracking number. In particular, the code may bethe last N digits of a tracking number, such as the last four to sixdigits, or some other identifier associated with the delivered package.If a proper access code is received at 4044, the container controlsystem unlocks the container to allow delivery of the package. If theowner is available at 4040, the owner can receive a video of theapproaching person and verifies a valid delivery by pressing the “openbutton” on the App to signal the container control system to unlock thecontainer at 4045.

In response to a determination of a valid delivery is being made, thecontainer control system unlocks the container at 4050. If the containeris full, such as from earlier delivered packages, the delivery personmay use the video connection to talk to the owner to receive furtherinstructions or press a container full button and leave the package in asafe place near the container, such as behind the container at 4053. Ifthe container is not full, the delivery person can place the package inthe container. The container control system then senses the new packagein the container using sensors, weight, a photodetector, or some othertype of sensor at 4054. The container control system then detects thatthe door to the container is shut and locks the container at 4056.

The container control system may then determine the weight of thepackages in the container and compare to the weight of the packages inthe container prior to the delivery. If the weight is less, thecontainer control system may activate an alarm such as an audio alarmand a flashing red light 4059. In addition, the container control systemnotifies the owner or can record and send video to the owner, seller,and/or third party service.

After a package is delivered, the container control system may print areceipt using a printer affixed to the container at 4060. In addition,the container control system may send a confirmation to the owner, theseller, and/or a third party delivery service using e-mail, SMS, and/orsome other messaging means at 4062. After the package is delivered, thecontainer control system may again enter a monitoring mode and activatea signal such as, but not limited to, a blue light to indicate that thecontainer is being monitored and is connected at 4064. The containerdelivery system then monitors until a person approaches. When the personapproaches, the process can repeat from step 4036. Otherwise, theprocess remains in monitoring mode the rest of the day and the process4000 can end.

Although a process for receiving delivery packages using a smart packagedelivery system in accordance with some embodiments of the invention isdescribed above, other processes that add, combine, and/or removefeatures of the process are possible in accordance with various otherembodiments.

In accordance with some embodiments, a container control system performsvarious processes that provide various functions of a delivery packagecontainer. One function that a container control system may perform inaccordance with some embodiments is controlling a climate control systemof an interior of the container. FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram of aprocess for controlling a climate control system of a compartment in acontainer in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

In process 500, a climate control request is received by the containercontrol system at 505. In accordance with some embodiments, the climatecontrol request may be from a user via a user device. In accordance withsome other embodiments, the request may be made by a third server systemto the climate control request. The third server system may bemaintained by a delivery service that is delivering a package to thecontainer. In accordance with still other embodiments, the climatecontrol request is received from a person delivering the package via apersonal device of the person.

The climate control request may include information about the desiredclimate in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Inaccordance with some of these embodiments, the desired climateinformation may include a desired temperature, or a desired temperaturerange, such as 45-55 degrees F. or 80-90 degrees F. In accordance withsome other embodiments, the desired climate information may indicaterelative instructions such as, but not limited to, warm and/or cool. Inaccordance with still other embodiments, the desired climate informationmay indicate a climate control unit to activate such as, but not limitedto, a heating system, a refrigeration system, and/or a humidor.

The control system determines current climate conditions in response toreceiving the request at 510. In accordance with some embodiments,determining the current conditions may include obtaining sensor readingsfrom inside the compartment or interior space of the delivery packagecontainer to determine the current climate conditions. In accordancewith some other embodiments, parameters representing current climateconditions may be read from memory. Based on the climate control requestand/or the current climate conditions, the container control systemadjusts climate control parameters at 515. The adjusting of the climatecontrol parameters may include sending new settings to the climatecontrol system in accordance with some embodiments. In accordance withsome other embodiments, the adjusting may include activating and/ordeactivating units in the climate control system. For example, thecontainer control system may activate a refrigeration unit in accordancewith some embodiments in response to a command to chill the compartmentor the interior space being received from a user and the temperature inthe compartment or the interior space being greater than or equal to theambient air temperature.

The container control system monitors the current climate conditions at520 and determines whether the current climate conditions are acceptableat 525. If the current climate conditions are acceptable, the containercontrol system continues monitoring the environment of the compartmentor interior space by repeating the monitoring process. If the currentclimate conditions are not acceptable, the container control systemupdates the climate control parameters of the climate control system at530 to adjust the climate conditions and repeats the monitoring process.

Although various embodiments of a process performed by a containercontrol system to change the environment in an compartment or interiorspace of a container are described with reference to FIG. 5, otherprocesses for changing the climate that add, combine, modify, and/orremove steps of the processes may be performed in accordance withvarious other embodiments of the invention.

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, the containercontrol system controls access to a compartment or interior space of thedelivery package container, or sometimes referred to as delivery packagestorage container. In accordance with many of these embodiments, accessto the interior of the delivery package container can be controlled bycontrolling a locking mechanism that locks at least one door to theinterior space of the container to restrict access. In accordance withsome of these embodiments, the container control system unlocks the doorin response to a proper code being input using an input device. Inaccordance with some other embodiments, the door may be unlocked basedon commands received from application being performed by user devices.In accordance with still some other embodiments, the command may bereceived by the control system from a third party server system. In someof these embodiments, the third party system sends the command based onthe location of a person delivering the package and/or the user. Variousother embodiments may control the access to the compartment or interiorspace of the delivery package storage container in a number of differentmanners.

FIGS. 6-9 illustrate flow diagrams of processes performed by variousdevices or components of the smart delivery package storage container ofthe present invention to restrict access to the interior space of thecontainer by changing the code needed to unlock the locking mechanism.In an embodiment, the code is changed by a third party server system.However, the code may be changed by the container control system and/oruser via a user device in accordance with some other embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram of a process performed by a thirdparty server system to change the codes for unlocking a lockingmechanism in accordance with a described embodiment of the invention. Inthe process 600 of FIG. 6, the third party server system receives arequest for a delivery of a package to a user at a user address at 605.In accordance with some embodiments, the request may be an order placedon a web site for a purchased item to be delivered. In accordance withsome other embodiments, the request may be a notification that asubscription is being filled. For example, the user may have amembership to a recipe fulfillment service in which ingredients forrecipe are delivered to the user on specific days.

In response to the request, the third party server system generates anew code for the locking mechanism of the container at 610 and transmitsthe new code to the container control system via the network at 615.Separately or at some later time, the third party server system receivesa request from a device of a delivery person for the code to access acompartment or interior space of the container at 620. In response tothe request, the third party server system transmits the code to thedevice of the delivery person for use in accessing the container at 625.Once the code is used to access the compartment or interior space in thecontainer, the third party server system receives an indication from thecontainer control system that the code was used to access the containerat 630. In response to receiving the request, the third party serversystem generates a new code at 635 and transmits the new code to thecontainer control system and/or a user device of the recipient at 640.The process 600 then ends after an indication that the new code was usedis received by the third party server system.

Although various embodiments of a process performed by a third partyserver system to change codes for a locking mechanism in a container aredescribed with reference to FIG. 6, other processes for changing thecodes that add, combine, modify, and/or remove steps of the processesmay be performed in accordance with various other embodiments of theinvention.

A process performed by a user device of a recipient to obtain and/or usea code provided by a third party server system in accordance with anembodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 7. In the process 700, therecipient device sends a request for a delivery at 705. As discussedabove, the request may be an order for a product purchased on a web siteto be delivered.

The recipient device receives a confirmation of the request at 710 andat a later time receives an indication that the package has beendelivered to the container at 715. The recipient device transmits arequest to the third party system and/or the container control systemfor a new code at 720. The new code is received from the third partysystem and/or the container control system at 725 and may be used toopen to unlock the door to the compartment or interior space of thecontainer.

Although various embodiments of a process performed by a recipientdevice to obtain a code for the door of a compartment or interior spaceof a container are described with reference to FIG. 6, other processesfor obtaining the code that add, combine, modify, and/or remove steps ofthe processes may be performed in accordance with various otherembodiments of the invention.

The device of a delivery person, such as a delivery courier, receivesthe code to be input to unlock the locking mechanism when the deliveryperson receives the package to be delivered. FIG. 8 illustrates a flowdiagram of a process performed by a device of a person making thedelivery to obtain the code in accordance with the discussed embodimentof the invention. Process 800 begins by the delivery device receivingthe delivery information for the package at 805. In accordance with someembodiments, the delivery information includes the address of the user.In accordance with many embodiments, the delivery information mayinclude handling information for the package.

Periodically, the delivery device provides status information to thethird party server system while travelling to the address at 810. Inaccordance with some embodiments, the status information may includelocation information for the delivery device to indicate the proximityof the device to the delivery address. This information may be used bythe third party server system to provide updates on the status of thedelivery to the recipient via a recipient device. In response to beingwithin a certain proximity of the container and/or address, the deliverydevice transmits a proximity indicator to the third party system at 815.In response to the proximity indicator, the delivery device receives thecode for the container at 820. The delivery person may then use the codeto access the compartment or interior space of the delivery packagecontainer and place the package in the container. After the package isplaced in the container, the delivery person may input an indicationthat the delivery has been made. Based on proximity to the containerand/or the indication of the delivery, the delivery device may transmitan acknowledgment of the delivery to the third party system and/or therecipient device at 825 and the process 800 ends.

Although various embodiments of a process performed by a delivery deviceto obtain and use a code for the door to a compartment or interior spacein a container are described with reference to FIG. 8, other processesfor obtaining and using the code that add, combine, modify, and/orremove steps of the processes may be performed in accordance withvarious other embodiments of the invention.

In the described embodiment, the container control system receives thecodes for controlling the locking mechanism from the third party serversystem and uses the received codes to control a locking mechanism. Aflow diagram of a process for controlling access to a compartment orinterior space of a container performed by a container control system inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 9.Process 900 begins with the control system receiving a code to use forthe delivery at 905. In accordance with some embodiments, only anindication to change the code is received and the control systemgenerates the code. In some other embodiments, the code is analphanumeric of a predetermined minimum length that is to be used todetermine if a valid code is entered. In accordance with some otherembodiments, the new code may also include delivery user informationthat can be used to verify the identification of the delivery person inaddition to the use of the code.

In response to receiving the code, the control system sets the lockingmechanism code to the received code at 910. In accordance with someembodiments, this may be performed by placing each symbol in the codeinto a corresponding register in the locking mechanism such that eachsymbol can be compared to an input received by the locking mechanismusing a keypad in the mechanism. In accordance with some otherembodiments, the new code is saved in memory and used as a comparison toan input code received by the control system.

The control system receives an input code and compares it to the currentcode stored in memory at 915. In response to the input being the currentcode, the control system directs the locking mechanism to perform anunlocking procedure at 920 and transmits a verification of the use ofthe code to the third party server system and/or a recipient device at925.

The control system receives a code to use for the removal of the packagein response to the verification of use of the delivery code at 930. Inaccordance with some embodiments, only an indication to change the codeis received and the control system generates the code. In some otherembodiments, the code is an alphanumeric of a predetermined minimumlength that is to be used to determine if a valid code is entered.

In response to receiving the code, the control system sets the lockingmechanism code to the received code at 935. In accordance with someembodiments, this may be performed by placing each symbol in the codeinto a corresponding register in the locking mechanism such that eachsymbol can be compared to an input received by the locking mechanismusing a keypad in the mechanism. In accordance with some otherembodiments, the new code is saved in memory and used as a comparison toan input code received by the control system.

The control system receives an input code and compares it to the currentcode at 940. In response to the input being the current code, thecontrol system directs the locking mechanism to perform an unlockingprocedure at 945 and transmits a verification of the use of the code tothe third party server system and/or a user device at 950 and theprocess 900 ends.

With reference now to FIGS. 10A-10C, an exemplary docking system orstation is shown 1253 that is usable with the delivery package storagecontainer 1000 of the invention, which can comprise a housing 1001 and adoor 1010 and can be similar to the delivery package storage containersdescribed elsewhere herein. As shown, the docking system 1253 cancomprise a home docking base 1255 and a container docking base 1260 thatare configured to mate together to secure the delivery package storagecontainer in place to prevent being carried away.

In an example, the home docking base 1255 can comprise one or moreanchors 1257. Each anchor 1257 can comprise a stem and a tip. The stemcan be anchored to a non-movable or fixed structure, such as to a patiocover, a deck, or to concrete surface, such as a slab. The head can besimilar to a mushroom head and can have an upper surface and a lowersurface.

The container docking base 1260 can be associated with the housing 1001of the delivery package storage container 1000. For example, thecontainer docking base 1260 can be attached to a bottom wall of thehousing 1001. In an example, the container docking base 1260 cancomprise a clamp-like structure 1262. There can be a clamp-likestructure 1262 for each anchor 1257. The clamp-like structure 1262 canhave two movable clamping sections that move together to trap the anchor1257. For example, the clamp-like structure 1262 can move together totrap the head of the anchor 1257.

In an example, the clamp-like structure 1262 can be activated ormanipulated to engage the anchor 1257. For example, an adjustment gripcan be provided in the interior of the housing 1001 to enable a user,such as the homeowner, to engage or disengage the clamp-like structure1262 form the anchor 1257. This will prevent unauthorized individualsfrom attempting to steal the delivery package storage container 1000without first disengaging the docking station 1253.

Although various embodiments of a process performed by a containercontrol system to obtain and use codes for the door of a compartment orinterior space of a container are described with reference to FIG. 8,other processes for obtaining and using the codes that add, combine,modify, and/or remove steps of the processes may be performed inaccordance with various other embodiments of the invention.

Methods of manufacturing and of using the delivery package storagecontainers described herein and components thereof are within the scopeof the present disclosure.

Although limited embodiments of the delivery package storage containersand their components have been specifically described and illustratedherein, many modifications and variations will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art. Accordingly, it is to be understood that thedelivery package containers and their components constructed accordingto principles of the disclosed devices, systems, and methods may beembodied other than as specifically described herein. The disclosure isalso defined in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A delivery package storage container comprising:a housing having a plurality of sides having at least one compartmentinside the housing and at least one through opening provided with thehousing for accessing the at least one compartment from a locationexterior of the housing; a door movably located over the at least onethrough opening, the door is configured to move between an open positionallowing access to the at least one compartment and a closed positionthat closes the opening thereby preventing access to the at least onecompartment from the location exterior of the housing; and a lockingmechanism integrated with the door or the housing, the locking mechanismbeing openable with a mechanical key, a combination code, an electronicsignal, or combinations thereof.
 2. The delivery package storagecontainer of claim 1, wherein a climate control system in communicationwith the compartment for changing temperatures inside the compartment.3. The delivery package storage container of claim 2, wherein theclimate control system comprises a refrigeration unit for cooling thecompartment.
 4. The delivery package storage container of claim 2,wherein the climate control system comprises a heating unit for heatingthe compartment.
 5. The delivery package storage container of claim 1,wherein the locking mechanism is Wi-Fi enabled and configured to receiveat least one of a lock signal and an unlock signal.
 6. The deliverypackage storage container of claim 1, further comprising a containerdocking base associated with the housing for engaging a home dockingbase associated with a stationary structure.
 7. The delivery packagestorage container of claim 1, further comprising a container controlsystem comprising a processing system, a memory accessible by theprocessing system, and instructions stored in the memory for directingthe processing system to receive climate instructions.
 8. The deliverypackage storage container of claim 1, further comprising a containercontrol system comprising a processing system, a memory accessible bythe processing system, and instructions stored in the memory, andwherein the instructions in the memory comprise instructions to receivea lock command and control the locking mechanism based on the lockcommand.
 9. The delivery package storage container of claim 8, whereinthe container control system further includes an input device attachedto the housing and exposed at an exterior of the housing to receiveinput from a user.
 10. The delivery package storage container of claim9, wherein the container control system further comprises a displayattached to the housing and exposed at the exterior of the housing. 11.The delivery package storage container of claim 10, wherein the inputdevice is a touch screen in the display.
 12. The delivery packagestorage container of claim 9, wherein the container control systemfurther includes a camera and wherein the instructions in the memoryfurther include instructions to capture an image with the camera inresponse to the lock mechanism being unlocked
 13. A method for securinga delivery package with a delivery package storage container, saidmethod comprising: providing a housing having a plurality of sideshaving at least one compartment inside the housing and at least onethrough opening provided with the housing for accessing the at least onecompartment from a location exterior of the housing; providing a doorover the at least one through opening, the door is configured to movebetween an open position allowing access to the at least one compartmentand a closed position that closes the opening thereby preventing accessto the at least one compartment from the location exterior of thehousing; providing a locking mechanism integrated with the door or thehousing, the locking mechanism being openable with a mechanical key, acombination code, an electronic signal, or combinations thereof; andactivating the locking mechanism after a delivery package is placed inthe at least one compartment.
 14. The method of claim 13, comprising acontainer control system comprising a processing system, a memoryaccessible by the processing system, and instructions stored in thememory, and wherein the instructions in the memory comprise instructionsto receive a lock command and control the locking mechanism based on thelock command.
 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising an ice packor a heating unit in the at least one compartment.
 16. A deliverypackage storage container comprising a housing, a door, and a lockingmechanism that is configured to actuated based on an electronic signal.